Rajkummar Rao’s first full-fledged gangster role is here, and it’s all blood, power, and grit. The trailer for Maalik, dropped by Tips Films on Tuesday, offers a chilling glimpse of Rao’s transformation into a cold-blooded gangster, ready to hack, stab, shoot, and burn down everything that stands between him and power.
Set in Allahabad in 1988, Maalik traces the journey of Rao’s character from humble beginnings to the peak of power, contending for a Vidhan Sabha seat amid a landscape soaked in crime and politics. The trailer promises high-octane action sequences, intense face-offs, and a layered exploration of crime and ambition.
In an exciting face-off, veteran Bengali cinema star Prosenjit Chatterjee plays the gritty cop determined to bring down Rao’s character, setting up a tense cat-and-mouse chase that looks to anchor the film’s narrative. The trailer also features Manushi Chhillar as Rao’s wife, marking her strong presence in this world of crime and politics.
Huma Qureshi is set to make a special appearance in a dance number, adding another layer of mass appeal to the action-packed narrative. The ensemble cast also includes Swanand Kirkire and Saurabh Shukla, the latter bringing his signature menacing presence that audiences have loved since his iconic ‘Kallu Mama’ in Satya.
Maalik marks a significant shift in Rajkummar Rao’s career, coming off a year where he showcased his versatility in Stree 2, Srikanth, Mr & Mrs Mahi, and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video. This film promises to highlight yet another facet of the actor, with his rugged look and intense performance receiving praise from fans since the trailer launch.
Directed by Pulkit, who previously helmed Dedh Bigha Zameen and Bhakshak, Maalik was first announced on Rao’s 40th birthday in August last year and is Pulkit’s directorial debut in the crime-action genre. The film is produced by Kumar Taurani under Tips Films and Jay Shewakramani of Northern Lights Films.
With music by Sachin-Jigar and lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Maalik is set to release in cinemas on July 11, 2025, promising a gritty, powerful cinematic experience that brings Rajkummar Rao in a never-seen-before avatar.
